Work remotely from UAE for foreign employer. AED 12,856/month (USD 3,500) minimum income. Federal rules, 1-year duration.
Remote workers and freelancers with location-independent income
Those seeking local employment or without proof of remote income
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | — |
| Job Offer Required | No |
| Sponsor Required | No |
| Remote Income Allowed | Yes |
| Family Accompaniment Allowed | Yes |
| Language Requirement | — |
Application Process
- 1Confirm eligibilityVerify you meet the age, education, and financial requirements above. Use our free eligibility quiz to score your fit against United Arab Emirates's Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme).
- 2Gather documentsPassport, recent photos, criminal record check, proof of accommodation, financial statements, health insurance, and any sponsor or employer letter.
- 3Submit applicationFile the application with the relevant United Arab Emirates immigration authority — usually online or at the consulate in your home country.
- 4Pay fees & attend appointmentPay the application fee (€264). Some applicants are required to attend a biometrics or interview appointment.
- 5Wait for decisionTypical processing: 1 months. Decision is communicated by email or via the official portal.
Cost & Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Annual Salary | — |
| Minimum Monthly Income | €3,253 |
| Minimum Investment | — |
| Application Fee | €264 |
Family & Long-term Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Path to PR | Yes |
| Path to Citizenship | Yes |
| Years to Citizenship | 30 |
| Dual Citizenship Allowed | No |
| Spouse Work Rights | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme)?
Work remotely from UAE for foreign employer. AED 12,856/month (USD 3,500) minimum income. Federal rules, 1-year duration.
Who is the Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme) best for?
Remote workers and freelancers with location-independent income
How long does the Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme) take to process?
Processing typically takes 1 months. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
What does the Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme) cost?
The application fee is €264. Total relocation cost depends on living costs, insurance, and document attestation.
Does the Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway has a path to PR.
Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 3-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Official source: https://www.moi.gov.ae
Last verified: 2026-03-05